Dakshina Kannada chosen for implementing ‘Ruthu Taare’ pilot programme, says Health Minister U. T. Khader

Department of Health and Family Welfare has chosen Dakshina Kannada district for implementing the pilot of ‘Ruthu Taare’, Karnataka’s mid-life women’s health and menopause programme for women aged 35 and above, according to Health and Family Welfare Minister U. T. Khader.Mr. Khader, also Minister in-charge of Dakshina Kannada, posted on X on Thursday: “Today, our department has issued orders to implement ‘Ruthu Taare’. The three-month pilot will begin in Dakshina Kannada, with dedicated clinics, comprehensive health screening, mental health and nutrition support, referrals and a mid-life health card.”Following the pilot, the government will work towards expanding the programme across the State, Mr. Khader said.“Women’s health does not end with motherhood, and menopause should never be a journey women are expected to endure in silence,” he posted.Mr. Khader wrote further: “Sleepless nights, hot flashes, joint pain, weakening bones, anxiety and emotional changes are real health concerns. They deserve understanding, timely diagnosis and proper medical care, not dismissal as simply a part of ageing.”“Every woman deserves to age with dignity, live with good health and receive care at every stage of life. With ‘Ruthu Taare’, we are taking an important step towards making that a reality,” the Minister said.He said actress and former Member of Parliament Ramya will be the brand ambassador of the programme. “Her voice and influence will help take this important message to women across Karnataka,” he posted.Meanwhile, an office memorandum issued by the Commissionerate of Health and Family Welfare Services said on Thursday that the programme is for providing comprehensive healthcare services to women aged 35 years and above covering perimenopause, menopause and post-menopause.It said for implementing the pilot, Dakshina Kannada District Health and Family Welfare Officer should map the existing health facilities, including primary health centres, Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, taluk hospitals, district hospital and designated medical colleges.The DHO should identify participating facilities, available infrastructure, human resources and specialist referral services. It said the DHO should prepare a district-level implementation plan, including identification of eligible women aged 35 years and above.The department should operationalise dedicated Wednesday clinic sessions at its health facilities and Saturday clinic sessions at medical colleges, subject to feasibility and availability of personnel.In addition, the department issued other guidelines for implementing the pilot programme in Dakshina Kannada. Published - November 13, 2026 07:22 pm IST